Top 10 Best Balance Bikes: Reviews & Buying Guide

Thinking of buying a balance bike for your little one? Well, there are plenty of options out there. But the problem is that not all of these will match your choice and taste of your child. Therefore, kids are becoming choosy when it comes to choose their bike. Of course, you don’t want to get them something that will turn out to be a disappointment.

Purchasing a bike can prove to be one of the daunting tasks. Because there are numerous models with different technologies, so picking the right bike can be the hardest task. Luckily for you, we’ve compiled the best balance bikes that are not only safe for your kids but will help them to learn first. We also give you the important things to consider when buying yourself.

Want to know the best part? Read on to learn more about toddler bikes and read our honest reviews on balance bike. So, we’re going to present top 10 balance bikes and some reputed kids bikes with detail reviews.

List & Reviews of Top 10 Balance Bikes on the Market

Like we just mentioned, presenting balance bike reviews and there are 10 balance bikes that will offer an excellent riding experience for kids. The bikes we’ve listed bellow offer high performance, give full comfort and help your child to develop coordination, balance and confidence.

1. Strider – 12 Classic Balance Bike

It is a skill-building, entry level-bike that provides an easy transition to traditional bikes. An award-winning bike that provides the convenience of a lightweight design. It weighs at only 8.9 pounds for easy handling and maneuvering.

Strider – 12 Classic is built to eliminate all distractions caused by pedaling and braking. Instead, it focuses entirely on balance and steering. It provides a perfect way of building your child’s confidence.

The bike is adjustable to fit kids who are 18 months to 3 years old. Footrests are integrated on the frame to provide maximum balance and added comfort. It has no-flat tires that enable it cope with any kind of terrain.

2. FirstBIKE Street Bike With Brake

When you procure the FirstBIKE Street Bike, you are investing in a full action pack for your kids, you will be able to use in even in the next generation because of its durability.

It is made for kids of age 2 to 5 years old, and it’s built to enhance stability and balance for the kids when training to be an expert in bikes. This award-winning designed bike has excellent features that make it even more beautiful and beneficial.

Special adjustable horse saddle seat prevents your kids from slipping off when they will be riding and reduces the chances of getting hurt. Cushioning air tires of this beautiful bike are perfect for all terrains and special grips ensure more safety of the child. Another extraordinary feature is hand brake and it’s really safe and secured option. Actually, if you want to get a super-bike for your kids then you may think about it.

3. Chillafish BMXie-RS: BMX Balance Bike

Chillafish BMXie is a new species of balance bikes that provide improved functionality, design and play value. It comes in a real BMX styling to give your kid a riding experience that’s one of a kind.

One feature that makes this bike stand out is the burst-free airless tires, similar to that of Cruzee bike. These maintenance-free tires mean that kids can ride the bike just about anywhere without getting punctured. A rubber layer imposed on the tires provides superb traction even on wet grass surfaces.

The frame is reinforced with fiberglass; a material that makes this bike ultra-light for effortless transportation when not in use. Apart from just being lightweight, this fiberglass frame is sturdy enough to support kids weighing up to 77 pounds. The seat adjusts easily to fit them who are 2 to 5 years old.

4. Cruzee UltraLite Balance Bike

The bike makes transition to a traditional bike much easier. It’s the lightest balance bike out there, weighing a mere 4.4 pounds. The ultra-lightweight construction equals effortless control and improved confidence among smallest riders. The rust-free anodized aluminum frame comes durable enough to provide at least 3 years of use.

Height adjustments make this bike a perfect match for kids who are 1.5 to 5 years old. That’s achieved via a wide seat that adjusts to within 8 inches and an ergonomic handlebar that adjusts to within 5 inches.

It comes in a sparkling anodized finish that is sure to mesmerize your kids. Cruzee backs it with a lifetime warranty – one of the best you can get on the market.

5. WOOM BIKES USA Balance Bike

In comparison to other balance bikes on the list, WOOM bike comes in as the most expensive. That’s because it’s got some few extra features that adds more to your child’s biking skills.

But before we go on further, this bike is specially designed with the youngest (1.5 to 4 years) riders in mind. This is evident from its low profile geometry that gives your kids an easy time getting on and off the bike.

As for the extra features, it comes with V-brakes designed to teach your kid some braking skills at an early age. Safety is assured by a steering lock limiter that makes the bike much easier to control. The frame is made of aluminum tubes designed for simple balancing. This type of frame makes the bike super lightweight, weighing at just 7 pounds.

6. Strider – 12 Sport Balance Bike

Are you looking for a durable and reliable balance bike for your kid? Then look no more because strider 12 sport is the bike for you. It is one of the industrial leader bikes which helps the kids as younger as 17 months to learn how to balance and ride on a two-wheel bike.

It is made to focus on leaning, balance and also steering without the complications and distractions training wheels or pedals. This no peddle design eliminates fear by building confidence on the kids by allowing their feet to be on the ground while training at their pace, it also teaches them how to balance on a two-wheel bike.

It has a mini-seat sport model, in addition to that, it also have paddled seat with extra-long seat post which can accommodate a 5 years old child. It is easy to assembly, maintenance free, light and an inbuilt Launchpad footrest. About 1 Million people have chosen Genuine Strider, search for reviews, product information and model comparisons, because they want to buy the best bike for their kids.

7. KaZAM v2s No Pedal Balance Bike

This is the only balance bike in the list providing the convenience of a footrest. The footrest comes in a patented design and is naturally positioned to help kids find their center of gravity with ease.

Both the seat and handlebar are adjustable in height. This allows the bike to grow with your child from 2 to 4 years old. The bike doesn’t disappoint when it comes to assemble. The whole process doesn’t take long and there are tools included to make it a breeze.

8. TooToo 12″ Balance Bike

This is an affordable balance bike equipped with premium safety features. Just like the WOOM bike, you get optimized safety provided by a V-brakes and steering limiter. At 8 pounds, this kids bike easily qualifies for the super lightweight category. That means easy transportation and effortless pushing.

One of the most unique features that possibly make it stand out is the quality Kenda tires. These upgraded tires provide improved performance on most surfaces. Angled valve stems give an easy time when inflating the tires.

The saddle comes wide and is redesigned to provide the most in comfort and stability. It adjusts from 12 to 18 inches to fit kids who are 2 to 5 years old.

9. Chicco Red Bullet Balance Training Bike

The bike takes your child’s balancing skills a step further. It comes in a lightweight metallic frame. It is ergonomically designed to provide maximum comfort and safety. It weighs at just 8.1 pounds and provides the convenience of a low seat height that eliminates the need for brakes.

The frame is sturdy enough to accommodate children weighing up to 55 pounds. It has soft puncture-resistant tires that provide smooth movement and better traction. The seat and handlebars can be adjusted in height to fit children who are 3 years and above.

A padding system is incorporated on the seat for great riding comfort. Chicco Red Bullet is a model that will improve your child’s biking skills without creating the element of fear in them.

10. Mini Glider Balance Bike

The Bike is made for kids of age 2 to 5 years old, it is a patented slow speed bike and like downhill mountain bike with removable foot pegs which makes it the best balance bike for toddlers to learn on.

It allows your kid to build up his confidence on bike balance and riding by giving them comfort and confidence that their need to advance to the two-wheel peddle bike.

Mini Glider has a hand brake which makes it easy to stop, this feature makes it different from all other balance bikes which are stop by stepping on the ground while riding, it also have an easy to adjust seat clamp. The in cooperated foot peg makes learning interesting and easy for the kids.

The Types of Balance Bike

Balance bikes are classified into three main categories based on frame: metal, plastic and wooden. There is a definite difference in these bikes and the technology they offer. Here, we’re going to discuss these differences so you can have a better understanding.

Metal frame balance bike

Metal frame balance bikes are unarguably the most common on the market. They come in either aluminum or steel frame. Aluminum provides the convenience of a lightweight construction while steel provides unrivaled sturdiness and strength.

These bikes have a reputation of lasting for longer. In fact, they can be passed down from child to child and still have many years of use in them. They wear less and provide easier seat and handlebar adjustment.

Their welded design makes it possible to incorporate footrests that improve balance and comfort. You might be asking, which bike is the best in this category? Well, Cruzee UltraLite and Strider – 12 Classic are among the top models that provide the “best bang” for your buck.

Wooden frame balance bike

This category might come as a surprise to some. It’s quite hard to imagine a bike that is made entirely out of wood, isn’t it? Well, contrary to their name, wooden balance bikes don’t feature an all-wooden construction. The wooden material is used mainly on the frame.

These bikes provide an excellent combination of modern design and that traditional look. They are built with style to bring out the best in a balance bike. With proper care, these bikes can provide several years of use.

The frame is made of plywood and perfectly sealed to resist the elements. It is stronger than solid wood since it doesn’t crack, warp or split. ZÜM CX Bike and Kinderfeets Chalkboard are among the best bikes in this category.

Plastic frame balance bike

Products made out of plastic are usually considered fragile. However, the world of balance bikes has changed this perception. They are made of tough, premium quality plastic materials that are designed to last. ABS plastics are the most common due to their lightweight yet sturdy design.

Compared to metal and wooden bikes, plastic balance bikes are more portable and give an easier time during assemble. The minimum bulk means that they can be lifted with ease by little kids.

Why Balance Bikes are Great for Kids?

What makes balance bike a better choice for kids? Well, we’re going to outline some benefits that make balance bikes worth all the hype. This will give you a clear picture of why they are considered a better choice for kids who want to learn how to ride.

♣ Allows kids to start young

Unlike training wheels, balance bicycles have no side effects to your child’s health. This makes them safe for use by kids who are as young as 18 months old. They improve the coordination skills of your kids early enough.

This provides easy and smooth transition to conventional pedal bikes when the kids get taller and stronger. They completely eliminate the need for training wheels.

♣ They are lightweight

Balance bikes are not cumbersome. They are especially designed to be lightweight enough for your kid to handle. To print a clear picture, they are almost three times lighter compared to pedal bikes.

They make it much easier for your kids to go for long rides. The lightweight construction makes them much easier to push and maneuver. Therefore, toddlers can derive the most fun without getting fatigued.

♣ The risk for injury is less

Safety is one of the major considerations for kids who want to learn how to ride. And balance bikes don’t disappoint when it comes to the safety of your kids.

They are specially engineered to provide a low profile that makes it possible for your kid to plant the feet on the ground. This provides maximum stabilization and reduces the risk of tipping over. And some models come with user-friendly brakes and steering limiters that ensure smoother rides.

♣ They teach multiple skills

Balance bikes are designed to teach your kid almost all skills they need to know to ride a traditional pedal bike. Besides balancing skills, they teach them how to steer, brake and use caution.

These bicycles go a step further to also teach your kids basic traffic rules. This makes your kid well equipped when they hit the road in a traditional pedal bike. They make them more enthusiastic about biking and build their confidence in the road.

♣ Enhance parent-child bonding

Balance bikes are like backyard parties or family retreats. They help bring members of the family close together. Teaching your kid how to ride on a balance bike is something that calls for the help of other family members, especially parents.

It is one of the best physical activities that encourages outdoor exploration – something that keeps the whole family moving together. In short, they keep the whole family happily on the go.

♣ More economical

Most people consider balance bikes a waste of money. In reality, this is not true. According to Two Wheeling Tots, they are more economical compared to tricycles and training wheels.

It provides the convenience of easy adjustment that makes them grow with your child. They eliminate the need for making new purchases in order to provide that perfect fit. This makes the overall investment of balance bikes quite minimal.

Some High Reputed Balance Bikes (Editor’s Choice)

KaZAM Classic Balance Bike

An ideal balance bike for your 6 years old child who has not started riding bikes yet. With KaZAM Bike, your kid will no longer use the training bikes to learn how to balance, gain confidence or ride.

Rush down to the store and try it, I bet that you will understand why parents and experts concur that KaZAM Classic is one of the best balance bikes and also the easiest way for your kid to learn how to ride a bike of his own.

The soft plastic handle gives the kid comfort while riding and the footrest which gives your kids a room to rest their feet’s while riding. Made with steel which makes it the toughest of all the balance bikes that you may be tempted to buy.

Its adjustability feature makes it easy to move the seat to the right position which will suit your kids perfectly. Are you looking for the value your money, then you will never find a better deal than this.

Burely Mykick Balance Bike

It is one of the top kids bicycles which gives your child the confidence that he needs in biking. It gives the kids total control, they will be able to scoot and stop the bike with their feet, it also gives the children all the comfort that they need when biking. The adjustable seat will fit to your 3 years old child perfectly.

Burely Mykick has a comfortable rubber grip, it has flat free tires, unlike the pumping tires. A high quality spoked wheels in cooperated in aluminum rims stuffed together to give you a durable and steady balance bike of all times. Not to mention the wheel hub which reduces friction when cycling.

Adjustable handlebars and the seat will accommodate the need of your growing kids. The shiny exterior of the bike makes the kids feel like they are on a real bike.

Diggin Active Skuut Wooden Balance Bike

Searching for a better option in wooden balance bikes? Well, Diggin Active Skuut might just be what you are looking for. It provides the natural look of wood and the excellent traction of wide rubber tires.

It is a blend of 4 materials: wood (85%), rubber (10%), metal (4%) and vinyl (1%). It is feather-light for easy lifting. The lack of spokes means no bruises in case your child falls.

It provides the option of adjusting the seat height and handlebar height. The seat height can be adjusted from 13 inches to a maximum of 16.5 inches.

The seat is perfectly curved to mold into the body. Skuut bike mainly focuses on improving your child’s balancing, co-ordination and steering skills.

Trikke Bikee Balance Bike

Made for kids of 2 to 5 years to improve the confidence and biking skills. Its integrated footrest that able to give the kids time and space to rest their feet. It offers longer wheelbase and a natural balance to the kids while riding.

The basic premise of this bike is to teach your child to balance on two wheels first without fretting about the pesky pedals. To achieve this end, the Trikke Bikke is loaded with features that add to its comfort quotient as well as ease of usage.

Both the saddle and handlebars are adjustable, allowing for a comfortable and custom fit. Added to that is the lightweight framework, which makes maneuvering around steep bends and sharp turns a cakewalk. Once your child learns how to balance on this two-wheel bike, he’ll find it a breeze to graduate to the next level, i.e a regular bike.

Radio Flyer Classic Glide & Go Balance Bike

Radio Flyer Classic puts the safety of your child into great consideration. There are no spokes to cause any bruises in case of accidental falls.

The bike doesn’t disappoint when it comes to style and elegance. Its wooden frame blends well with the surrounding natural environment.

The wood is treated to ensure maximum strength and durability. It is sealed with a specialized coating to make it resistant to rot and insect attack. It is waterproof and crack resistant to provide an all-weather use.

It has broad 12-inch pneumatic tires that provide excellent traction in different surfaces. The seat is adjustable to last your child from infant to toddler stage. The hand grips are rubberized to provide that soft, non-slip touch for great control. It is designed to fit children who are 30 months to 5 years old.

Schwinn Balance Bike, 12-Inch

Are you looking for a balance bike that will not only give you kid’s confidence in biking but also enables them to balance with lots of ease, then Schwinn 12-inch is just the perfect balance bike for your preschooler.

The 12 Inch bike offers the child with a unique foot design that inspires confidences to the kids while learning the basics of bike balancing and in turn improves confidences.

It might not be perfect but it is certainly one of the top listed bikes for preschoolers. Its air tires and tube that enhance easy rolling, adjustable seat and lighter weight That make this bike is the best for your 2 to 5-year-old, they will be able to move with a lot of ease. I bet that you will never regret making this purchase.

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Balance Bike

If you need to buy a bike for your lovely kid, then first you can ask your neighbors or friends to get some important suggestions. And you can also search in the Internet to read on the kids balance bike reviews. Honestly, before buying a balance bike you need to know about this and you really need to consider some important factors. Here are some factors that should be considered to choose the best balance bike for your smart and growing kid.

♣ Set your price

Actually, price doesn’t fact when it’s matter of your kids! But you should take a look at the budget plan before buying a balance bike. We bet that you do not want to go beyond your budget, to avoid this kind of situation ensure that your plan ahead and set aside the amount that you want to use. You can go for a new or used bike but that depends on preference for your budget.

♣ Design of the bike

This is one of the most important factors which you should consider before rushing down the shop to procure the right bike for your kid. First this first, which types of balance bike do you want your child to use. Do you want a two-wheel bike or a three-wheel? This is the first detail which you should look into before going for the buy.

♣ The height of the seat

Balance bikes are generally made for kids of 2 to 5-year-old and maybe you do not want to procure a bike that your child cannot set on while learning how to balance or how to ride. Go for the bikes which have adjustable seats/ saddle. As he grows you will have to adjust the seat to the level which suits him best. Remember comfort matters a lot in training.

♣ The materials used to make the frame & other elements

The material used to make the balance bike is also another important factor which you should consider before going for the buy. With the heightening economy, you don’t want to be always on the road to the shop. Go for a bike which will last long even if it’s intended purpose is over, maybe you will need it in future. Go for a bike made of steel, aluminum rims and durable tires. This kind of bicycles promises to last for generations.

♣ The weight of the bike

The fact that the bikes are for kids of about 2 years of age say it all, you should never go for a bike that gives your child a nightmare when he wants to ride. Make sure that you only go for a bike of lighter weight which a child can pick up by himself and hope on it with lots of ease hence improving stability and confidence of the kid.

♣ Brakes and what type of brakes

There are two types of bike based on brake; many bikes have hand brake and others don’t have. Generally, stop the bike during riding is controlled by using feet, because the child of 1.5 to 3 years old is not interested in the use of hand brake or not used to in it, kid’s feet is enough for that! Balance bike with the hand brake is appropriate for 3.5 years to up age’s child.

Brakes or no brakes in balance bike is not an important detail but you should never overlook while making the purchase. Remember that your child’s safety is paramount. Pick a bike which your child can easily make an emergency brake when need rises.

♣ Ensure that you check every details before you pay

Check and counter check if everything is in order, you do not want to leave the shop only to find out that the bike if missing a bolt or the wheels are not the right wheels for your bike. That the main reason why you should ensure that everything is in order before making the payment.

Conclusion

The ideal bike for your kid does not mean that you must purchase a cheap or an expensive bike. But choosing the kid’s bike is light, comfortable, easy to handle, durable and easy to learn. It is the best move that can help you to pick the right bike for kid.

Actually, a good balance bike is key to developing your child’s basic biking skills. The above reviewed models are a wise purchase that both children and parents will appreciate. These bikes provide an easy learning curve that will make your child a pro in no time. They are affordable and durable enough to worth the money spent. Make a decision and choose the model that will suit your child best.

9 Comments

Clayton Simon

October 28, 2016 at 8:23 am

Thanks for all the great information about kid’s balance bike. I’m looking for a balance bike for my son he is 3 now, and 14 inch inseam and weighs 34 pounds. I have just known about MyKick and Strider for my kid. Do you have any opinion?

Jennifer Coursey

October 28, 2016 at 9:18 am

Glad you found this site! There are many options out there. For your kid, Strider – 12 inch Classic would be great. It’s extremely lightweight bike, just 8.9 lbs for easy handling and maneuvering. Especially, its adjustable seat and handlebar for growing riders.

Melvin Rundle

November 1, 2016 at 7:09 am

Love the website. Your site is a great resource but I’m still a bit confused. I’m hoping you could help me to choose the best bike for my little boy. He is 4, 36 inch tall 30 pounds. He has never ridden a bike before. Based on your reviews, I’ve chosen FirstBike. Of course if you think another balance bike is a better option, I’m open to considering anything. Thanks in advance for your help!

Jennifer Coursey

November 1, 2016 at 6:28 pm

Glad to help. FirstBike is an excellent choice. I think it’s perfect for your little kid according to his age, height and weight. Besides, the bike has some special features that are really awesome! The best part about this bicycle is that kids can ride it safely without the fear of getting injured. Special horse saddle shape will prevent your kid from slipping off during riding. Definitely you can go ahead about it. Actually, there are many good models of FirstBike. I think this model would be best and appropriate for your child. Check it out: https://bestbalancebikereviewed.com/firstbike-street-bike-with-brake-review-2/ 

BabbleBikes

Jennifer Coursey

April 2, 2017 at 10:34 am

Glad you found this site. Both balance bikes have high reputation and these are excellent selection. But it depends on child’s age. Schwinn balance bike is best for 2.5 to 5 years old kids and Strider for 1 to 3 years old. Eventually, if you ask me to choose one of them then my first choice is Strider.

It’s really have a good and effective information in this site to select good balance bike. You can consideration easy handling,lightweight,safety to before buy, Which you get all here. Bike is most favorite all of age. This is not only for entertainment but also remove short distance. At present it now most effective, but before the buy, you just need to check to balance. Balancing a bike easy to ride and get more facilities.

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